Ashdown Forest Camping: Best Campsites Near Ashdown Forest, East Sussex

Wedged between London and England’s southeast coast, peaceful Ashdown Forest was founded back in Norman times as a hunting ground, and is famously the home of AA Milne’s beloved fictional bear Winnie the Pooh. Now it’s part of the magical, 580-square-mile High Weald AONB, with spectacular elevated views of the North and South Downs, making it one of the most rewarding pockets of southern England for outdoor adventurers. Though you can’t pitch up within the forest itself, there are plenty of nearby camping and glamping choices. With luck, you’ll spot deer and other wild creatures, and fragrant heather and rhododendrons burst into bloom in spring.

97% (2.1K) • 815 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Ashdown Forest

Wedged between London and England’s southeast coast, peaceful Ashdown Forest was founded back in Norman times as a hunting ground, and is famously the home of AA Milne’s beloved fictional bear Winnie the Pooh. Now it’s part of the magical, 580-square-mile High Weald AONB, with spectacular elevated views of the North and South Downs, making it one of the most rewarding pockets of southern England for outdoor adventurers. Though you can’t pitch up within the forest itself, there are plenty of nearby camping and glamping choices. With luck, you’ll spot deer and other wild creatures, and fragrant heather and rhododendrons burst into bloom in spring.

97% (2.1K) • 815 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Ashdown Forest

1. Holistic Woods Wild Campsite

94%

(178)

146km from Ashdown Forest · 47 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

We are a WILD campsite with character and history. Our most popular pitch is our beautiful SSSI woodland. There are only 25 pitches available. We have a mid wild pitch on the outskirts of the woods, lovely grassed area between trees. Our top field is perfect for motorhomes & caravans. Plenty of space to breath and relax. Located on the stunning heathlands of the Sutton Heath. We are surrounded by beautiful woodland walks, including the Sandlings walk and just 10 minutes from the river Deben. We have a bus stop at the top of the track and Melton train station is a 20 minute walk or 5 minute drive. There are access points onto public footpaths, leading to Rendlesham Forest. A famous site for UFOs! Sutton Hoo is a stone's throw away. Bring your bikes and explore the area on wheels. There is water access and portaloos. We do not have showers yet. Blue/grey waste must be taken away. LEAVE NO TRACE

2. The Nut Plat Retreat

93%

(73)

27km from Ashdown Forest · 3 units · Glamping

Antique living wagons on the banks of the River Bourne, with a charming orchard setting, a pub down the lane and a history unlike anywhere else

3. The Barn KT9

97%

(271)

40km from Ashdown Forest · 22 units · Tents, Glamping

A unique rural campsite in Surrey, a stone's throw from London's Zone 6

4. Rest and Retreats Shepherd Huts

119km from Ashdown Forest · 2 units · Glamping

Our shepherd huts are designed with indulgent luxury in mind, you will sleep well, in a king size bed with high thread count cotton sheets covering goose down filled pillows and duvet. “Freddie" hut will enhance your connection with the great outdoors with a gorgeous skylight above your bed. By day a cascade of natural light, by evening framing a view of the stars. For those wintery nights snuggle in and de-stress in front of the wood burning stove with a brew or glass of Prosecco on us. When you choose to rise listen to your Roberts radio in your fully equipped kitchen with premium appliances, enjoying breakfast on us with fresh milk, orange juice, cereals & a small loaf of local sourdough, fresh jams and of course a coffee made from your Nespresso. Located down an old Roman road in an ancient village you will have far reaching views of the Oxfordshire countryside, a few minutes stroll away a fantastic community owned pub awaits, local pint or well earned GnT? Let us host you here at Restandretreats for that romantic break or just to escape, unwind and clear your mind. Our location has the best of both worlds, your shepherd hut is located in an ancient Roman village in the Oxfordshire countryside, yet just 5 miles from the centre of Oxford with all its history and university colleges. If you choose you can compliment your stay with an indulgent shopping trip to Bicester Village premium outlet (11m) or Blenheim Palace (8m) with all its history and events on offer. Jeremy Clarksons Diddly squat farm (21m) and his new public house have also become popular with our guests. If walking or running is more your focus then why not explore the beautiful RSPB Otmoor bird reserve, a haven for wildlife with many visitor trials to enjoy, it’s merely a short walk away. Whatever your visit has in store our cosy pub, The Abingdon Arms, is waiting only 100metres walk away, offering fine ales and fine dining or perhaps just a take away pizza. We do welcome our furry 🐕 friends, but NOT in our “Freddy” hut, please check out our other listing for our dog friendly “Edie” shepherd hut listed on Airbnb. We can offer single nights Sunday through Thursday in the quieter months - please message us here or reach out to us at RestandRetreats and we will always see what we can do

5. Radcot Leisure on Thames

89%

(305)

135km from Ashdown Forest · 50 units · Tents, Glamping

A Thames’ island campsite in the Oxfordshire countryside – with a lovely pub just over the bridge

6. Chalky Downs

96%

(605)

26km from Ashdown Forest · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes

Traditional tent camping in a stunningly-located South Downs farm, just down the road from buzzing Brighton

7. Stockbridge View Campsite

93%

(89)

110km from Ashdown Forest · 62 units · Tents, Motorhomes

A simple campsite in the Test Valley, just a 15-minute walk from Stockbridge

8. The Sunnyfield Campsite

94%

(99)

69km from Ashdown Forest · 25 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

Looking for a place where you can camp, glamp and campervan together with friends? The Sunnyfield is the place.

9. Buzzard Holt Hosting

100%

(7)

129km from Ashdown Forest · 13 units · Glamping

Glamping with a mini outdoor spa on the edge of Stowe Park in Buckinghamshire

10. Far and Away Camping

100%

(18)

43km from Ashdown Forest · 40 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

Nestled within the heart of the Kent countryside, Far and Away allows you to escape into a rural, peaceful and wild campsite. The skies are full of song birds and birds of prey, hot air balloons dominate the still summer evenings and there is always a spitfire or biplane circling from the local aerodrome. With close to zero light pollution, the night skies are a stunning way to end the day not to mention Far and Away sunrise and sunsets are also worth staying up for! Immerse yourself in the heart of the beautiful Kent countryside and take advantage of the many public footpaths around the campsite. Far and Away is 1.2 miles away from Headcorn village where you can find a host of local amenities, shops, pubs and restaurants. There is also a host of National Trust sites within a short drive including Sissinghurst Castle and many wonderful villages to visit including medieval Biddenden and the magical market town of Tenterden. Next to junction 8 of the M20 there is also Leeds Castle, only a 20 minute drive from Far and Away and the Big Cat Sanctuary is only a few fields away. At night you can hear the roar of the wild cats really making it feel like you are Far and Away!

11. Shotover Country Park Wild Camping

114km from Ashdown Forest · 25 units · Tents

Our 7 acre property is a mixture of woodland and meadows with a fresh water spring and several fruit and nut trees. It is wild and mysterious with amazing sunsets and we are just a stones throw away from Shotover Country Park, which is the real Narnia. C S Lewis lived on the edge of Shotover woods and so we can fairly assume that Shotover is the inspiration for the Narnia trilogy. Shotover Country Park is one of Oxfords best kept secrets and consists of 280 acres of freely accessible woodland and open countryside. It is a paradise for dog walkers, horse riders and cyclists and also has natural sandpits for children to enjoy. We will be offering woodland rides from this location in 2026 as we need to do some fencing work first.

12. Luna Domes

100%

(9)

12km from Ashdown Forest · 8 units · Glamping

High-end glamping with hot tubs in the Garden of England

13. Lepe Beach Campsite

89%

(149)

104km from Ashdown Forest · 20 units · Tents

Traditional tent camping with views of the Solent and Isle of Wight. Oh and did we mention it's only 150 yards from the beach!?

14. Willow Wood Off-Grid Cabin

100%

(1)

19km from Ashdown Forest · 1 unit · Glamping

Escape the noise. Reconnect with nature. Our cosy off-grid cabin is set in an open meadow with sweeping countryside views and zero light pollution (perect for stargazing!) Fully off-grid, but with all the comforts: hot shower, king-size bed, full kitchen, and a wood-burning stove. - Panoramic views from bed - Dog-friendly with outdoor space to roam - 1km walk to the Six Bells pub (proper pub) - 3km from Gun Tap Room & Brewery - 30 mins to the Beachy Head to Seven Sisters coastal hike

15. Riverside Camping - Festival Feel

92%

(38)

133km from Ashdown Forest · 41 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

A pop-up campsite on the banks of the River Great Ouse, with workshops, music, good food and a festival vibe

16. The Slips

91%

(85)

29km from Ashdown Forest · 39 units · Tents, Motorhomes

A relaxed, back-to-basics campsite in the West Sussex countryside

17. Scallow Campsite Glamping Pods

92%

(13)

16km from Ashdown Forest · 3 units · Glamping

The Glamping site offers three Glamping Pods. Glamping Pod 1 has twin beds while Glamping Pod 2 and 3 have double beds. The Pods are furnished with beds, side tables, table and chairs with hanging space for clothes and coats. The site is level and surrounded by a well managed copse adjoining the road with wild flowers and resplendent with bluebells in the Spring. We are proud to have been awarded Campsite of the Year East Sussex for 2021/22 by CorporateLiveWire Prestige Awards.

18. Jubilee Camping

96%

(98)

135km from Ashdown Forest · 51 units · Tents

Simple tent camping in the farming village of Damerham with fine views and easy access to the New Forest National Park

19. Old Litten

99%

(60)

71km from Ashdown Forest · 1 unit · Tent

Nestled atop a serene hill, this idyllic field offers a perfect escape for campers. Blanketed in lush, green grass, the field stretches out under a vast, clear sky, providing panoramic views of the South Downs National Park. Wildflowers in vibrant hues dot the landscape. As the sun goes down, the sky transforms into a canvas of twinkling stars, untouched by city lights. This remote haven, far from the hustle and bustle, is a sanctuary for those seeking tranquility and a deep connection with nature.

20. Quaint Farm in a National Park

100%

(26)

60km from Ashdown Forest · 2 units · Glamping

Our 17 acre Farm is set deep within the beautiful South Downs National Park on the outskirts of the quiet village of Milland (near Liphook) in rural West Sussex (close to its border with Hampshire and Surrey). We have direct access to an excellent bridleway and footpath network through peaceful open countryside and quiet lanes as well as being on the Serpent Tail and close to the South Downs Way. Our Glamping Pod and Shepherd's Hut are available to book all year round. We also offer stabling if you would like to take your horses or ponies on holiday with you! Milland village (0.8 miles) has the Rising Sun pub, serving great food and drink, and Milland Stores, which stocks all your essential fresh and local produce as well as having a small cafe.

Top camping destinations around Ashdown Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

M

Matt

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to The Nut Plat Retreat

The cabin was homely, warm and comfy. Plenty of logs provided for the burner. The hot tub is surrounded by trees and when the stars come out a lovely place to wallow. Nice country pub on doorstep. Would recommend.

C

Catarina

December 2025

5 m travel trailer

With kids

1 night at Holistic Woods Wild Campsite

Plain and simple holistic experience no gimmicks or frills. The best I've been to in a while the staff are lovely the surrounding are as nature intended. I will be back for sure

e

erin

November 2025

Weekend Trip to The Nut Plat Retreat

Highly recommend, my partner and I had a great time at Finlay’s cabin. It was exactly what we were looking for in terms of: how remote & private it was, outdoor and indoor fire & the hot tub! We also loved the unique structure and authentic feel… however a few things to note, for the cost per night(£180) I would expect: body wash & shampoo / hairdryer, better kitchen essentials, the coffee left was almost empty for example and old stuff was left in the fridge& top shelf was left completely wet.. I know it’s ‘small’ things but for the price you’d expect these things to be attended to.. for us we didn’t mind too much, but would have made the experience a lot nicer to have these things to improve the overall feel and experience. Also I felt that in terms of cleanliness, it could have been cleaner, many cobwebs & spiders, hair and dirt in the bath tub, messy outdoor porch area; we wanted to use the outdoor bbq and had to clean it very well ourselves.. for the price you would expect it to be clean and ready to use with coals etc however we had to make do with the indoor logs with no fire starter as only option was the chemical indoor one which we didn’t want to use to cook food on.. making it difficult. The hotub area is lovely, however we wanted to use it at night which proved difficult as no outdoor lightning, and indoor torch didn’t work.. some lanterns outside would be a great addition. Duncan was a kind host and has a very special plot!

c

chris

November 2025

8 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Holistic Woods Wild Campsite

Holistic Woods is exactly that.. the tranquility, no light pollution.. it was amazing, quiet and the first time for as long as I can remember my brain switched off from the noise of life.. can't wait to get back and chill out

D

David

November 2025

3 nights at The Nut Plat Retreat

Such a beautiful spot, we took Ransoms for 3 nights. Everything we needed was ready for us, nice kitchen and a lovely hot tub. The host is very friendly and helpful. Don’t miss out on The Kentish Rifleman’s Pie and a Pint on Tuesdays and walks through Plaxtol, Igtham moat, and the green fields.

Sunrises don't get much better than those at Far and Away Camping

A

Adam

November 2025

8 m Class B

With kids

Weekend Trip to Far and Away Camping

Very nice location for stargazing lovely atmosphere exactly as described

J

Julie

November 2025

4 m travel trailer

2 nights at Holistic Woods Wild Campsite

Amazing place .and very close to local attractions and nice walks ..very helpful friendly people ..relaxing peaceful ..loads of wildlife ..I’ll be going back would definitely recommend if you like rustic /nature..

M

Martin

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Holistic Woods Wild Campsite

We had a great time camping here in early November. It was just us, and the surroundings are really nice. You could hear the nearby road at times but otherwise it was everything you’d like from wild camping. We’ll be back.

George

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Far and Away Camping

This spot was perfect. Despite it being November and seeing a little more rain than we probably would have liked it didn’t take away the experience. Jayne was accommodating to our needs allowing us a fire pit as it was out of season. Would be back!

O

Oscar

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

1 night at Old Litten

Charlotte’s land was a brilliant spot perfectly located with a beautiful view. Had everything we needed for our one night stay and we had a great time thanks to it.

I

Ian

October 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Old Litten

What an incredible find! Lovely views, lovely people nearby and the host was so friendly and welcoming. We will absolutely be back!

G

Geert

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Old Litten

A truly beautiful place to stay – so charming and full of character. And then there’s Charlotte, the hostess: such a warm and welcoming person, with a genuine passion that shines through in her wonderful camper spot. The surrounding region is perfect for both walking and gravel riding. For food and drinks, head to the pub just around the corner (“The Pub with No Name” aka The White Horse). It’s incredibly authentic and serves excellent cuisine.

J

John

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Holistic Woods Wild Campsite

Had very chilled 2 nights accept for the wet and windy night and was just me on site, Joe was helpful when arrived, just me and my hammock can’t wait to go back.

C

Chat

October 2025

2 nights at Willow Wood Off-Grid Cabin

Went as a solo traveller, the location was quiet enough to feel secluded enough, the cabin was clean warm with modern comforts, nice local pubs and excellent walks would recommend

R

Ross

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Old Litten

Lovely site for nearly wild camping, had the place all to ourselves, and the view was incredible. Charlotte was a lovely and helpful host, would definitely recommend. If it helps anyone find the site in future, the what3words is ///deeper.perfumes.hiked

A

Alan

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Far and Away Camping

Well worth the drive. Really nice site. Definitely be going back

C

Charlie

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Excellent site, so relaxing and beautiful: just as described. Cannot recommend highly enough, will definitely return and highly recommend

R

Ryan

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

It is well organised, easy to access and you really do feel you are in the countryside/out in the wide open spaces. I highly recommend this site and aim to be back very soon!

P

Paul

September 2025

4 m Class B

With pets

2 nights at Chalky Downs

Our host was very friendly and helpful. Facilities were fine, clean and tidy. You will probably need some ramps if you want to be completely level but wasn’t a problem for us.

L

Liam

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Had such a great stay at The Barn!! Such a lovely campsite and it has everything you need for a relaxing stay! There are great walks in the local area and the on site cafe had amazing pastries! Would highly recommend to anyone looking for a peaceful break!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Campsites near Ashdown Forest guide

Where to go

Wych Cross & West Ashdown Forest

Whether you fancy cycling over the hills, tracking down Roman ruins, or a long hike with a country pub at the end, Ashdown Forest is a back-to-nature delight. The villages of Wych Cross and Crowborough mark its western and eastern flanks. The perfect place to start your explorations is the official Forest Centre near Wych Cross, which has the lowdown on the best woodland walking and archaeology routes, as well as paths weaving straight out into the heath with its dazzling North Downs views.

North Ashdown Forest

Renowned English author AA Milne once lived on the northern fringes of Ashdown Forest, near Hartfield and Forest Row, and campers will love following in his footsteps through its eerie wooded expanses. Some of Milne’s most popular “Winnie the Pooh” locations dot the area, including a bridge across the River Medway and the misty 500 Acre Wood, with walking trails meandering between them. In addition, local operators also offer horse rides, cycling routes run through beech forests, and delicious farm shops sit ready for stocking up on local treats.

South Ashdown Forest

Some of Ashdown Forest’s most thrilling hiking trails sprawl around the villages of Duddleswell and Nutley, on the southern fringes. History lovers will want to tackle the route to a World War II memorial, while photographers should take in the fabulous panoramas across the South Downs to the chalk-cliff coastline. The camping and glamping sites sprinkled near here are among the area’s best—set up camp on an organic farm or a cider orchard, or book into an off-grid yurt.

High Weald AONB

Beyond Ashdown Forest, the High Weald AONB sprawls from Winchester in Hampshire to Hastings on the East Sussex coast. It’s packed with adventure activities, whether you’re keen to hike around the heathlands, kayak across a lake, or try some SUP yoga.